EVALUATION OF A GRAPHITE-FURNACE ATOMIC-ABSORPTION METHOD DEVELOPED FOR THE DETERMINATION OF LEAD IN SUGARS

A graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry (GFAAS) method was collaboratively studied to see if it would provide reliable performance in laboratories with a wide range of GFAAS expertise. Reliable detection of lead at levels of 100 ng/g was essential, and the method exceeded this requirement and provided quantification at levels of 30-50 ng/g with good contamination control. The intralaboratory precision was better than 10% RSD, and the interlaboratory precision was better than 20% RSD for samples with Pb at levels of 100 ng/g or greater. Problems with contamination are highlighted, and the maturity of GFAAS as a routine analytical technique is discussed.